The cave of Altamira in northern Spain contains some of the finest examples of Paleolithic art in the world featuring charcoal drawings and color paintings, such as the depiction of bison that inspired our pin. Most of the paintings and drawings depict local animals, plant life, hands and abstract symbols, and highlight the creativity and genius of early humanity. Because of its isolation over time, the cave’s paintings were well-preserved upon their discovery in 1868. The cave was likely painted over a span of 20,000 years, and while it is closed to visitors today, can still be viewed at the nearby complete reproduction.

Learn more about the work that inspired this pin HERE.